As we continue to experience the chill outside,  customers may see an increase in their energy usage. There are several ways you can keep your bill as low as possible – including help from your smart meter.

The colder the temperature outside, the harder your heating system needs to work to keep your home comfortable inside. I&M understands the impact higher bills may have on your budget. Below are ways you can keep warm and keep your bill low.

Smart Meters Give You Control

You can monitor your electricity use if you have an I&M smart meter. It can show you when your energy usage spikes, such as when you’re using your oven or dryer along with other daily activities. Your meter can also provide real time tips to reduce your energy usage.

Those with a smart meter can also review their Weekly Energy Update (WEU). This report summarizes the previous week’s energy use and can highlight energy trends so you can adjust habits. To access your unique report, log into your I&M account and navigate to Account Settings. You can also adjust settings to be notified of a high bill.

We’re Here to Help 

When it comes to paying your monthly power bill, all customers have options available to them.

Flexible Payment Options: A payment extension may be an option if you require a few extra days to pay a bill in full. Payment arrangements are also available to help spread payments out over a few months. You should reach out before your bill is due to set up either option.

Average Monthly Payment (AMP) Program – Eliminate the highs and lows of winter and summer bills with the Average Monthly Payment (AMP) program, which averages your home’s electric bills for the entire year, so you can pay about the same amount each month. 

You can find the Payment Plan that works best for you here.  

You can manage your preferences through your I&M account. Don’t have an online account? Visit the account page on our website to register with an active email address along with phone number, address or account number.